So What Exactly is a Death Doula?

When I say death doula it never fails to be followed by, “So what exactly is a death doula?” and honestly for a long time I had difficulty putting it into words in any sort of succinct way. I struggled to define it in a simple and digestible message because the tasks and undertakings can vary greatly depending on the needs of the individual and every end-of-life journey is so unique.

We provide education and guidance in relation to end-of-life planning and the dying experience. The unknown can be uncomfortable and carry fear with it. We can help open up that conversation with you and establish some preparation and familiarity easing the discomfort.

We offer emotional and spiritual care by coming alongside our clients through non-judgmental companionship. We create safe environments to hold conversation about feelings, emotions, worries and existential questions, in order to explore them together in meaningful ways.

We arrange practical assistance and event management, the event being a death. There are a lot of parts and components as one nears death. You may have hospice or other medical providers making appointments and coming and going. You may have family, friends and loved ones wanting to stop over to visit or to help. We can coordinate your care, be protectors of your energy and task managers of your helpers to be the most effective and efficient. We can provide essential respite care to your primary caregivers to ensure they too, are getting the care they need.

We nurture your creativity and visions in legacy projects, funerary wishes and memorial plans. We are story catchers to help you capture and communicate your narrative and what you choose to leave behind with intention to your loved ones.

How I’ve come to define the role is through the ever-constant responsibility of the doula heart and soul to be of service to a person preparing for or experiencing end-of-life with non-medical holistic support.